Should I start with Total War Warhammer 1 or 2?

Should I Start with Total War Warhammer 1 or 2?

The Total War franchise has been a staple in the gaming world for over two decades, and Total War: Warhammer, in particular, has brought a new level of complexity and depth to the table. With the release of the third installment, gamers are left wondering whether to start with the original game, Total War: Warhammer, or jump into the latest iteration, Total War: Warhammer III. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits and drawbacks of starting with each game, helping you make an informed decision on which one to play.

Why Start with Total War Warhammer 1?

While Total War: Warhammer II has received widespread acclaim, its predecessor, Total War Warhammer, still offers an excellent gaming experience. Here are a few reasons why starting with the original game can be beneficial:

• Introduction to the franchise: Total War Warhammer is an excellent introduction to the series, offering a more linear storyline and a more intuitive interface. This makes it easier for new players to grasp the basics of Total War gameplay.
• Cheaper: Total War Warhammer is generally less expensive than its sequel, making it a more budget-friendly option for those new to the series.
• Unique factions: Each faction in Total War Warhammer has its unique story, units, and gameplay mechanics, offering a varied and engaging experience.

However, there are some significant drawbacks to starting with Total War Warhammer 1:

• Outdated graphics: Compared to modern standards, the graphics of Total War Warhammer may appear dated, which may affect the overall gaming experience.
• Limited diplomacy: The diplomacy system in Total War Warhammer is less complex than its successor, which may lead to less engaging diplomatic interactions.
• No Dark Lands campaign: Total War Warhammer does not feature the Dark Lands campaign, a major selling point for its sequel.

Why Start with Total War Warhammer 2?

On the other hand, starting with Total War Warhammer II offers several advantages:

• Improved graphics: The graphics in Total War Warhammer II are a significant improvement over its predecessor, offering more detailed character models and environments.
• Enhanced diplomacy: The diplomacy system in Total War Warhammer II has been significantly improved, offering more complex and nuanced diplomatic interactions.
• New factions and campaigns: Total War Warhammer II includes new factions, such as the Dark Elves and Skaven, as well as new campaigns, including the popular Dark Lands campaign.
• Better tutorials and interface: The tutorials in Total War Warhammer II are more comprehensive and well-designed, making it easier for new players to get started.

However, starting with Total War Warhammer II also has some drawbacks:

• Steeper learning curve: The improved complexity of Total War Warhammer II’s diplomacy and military mechanics may make it more challenging for new players to learn.
• Increased cost: Total War Warhammer II is generally more expensive than its predecessor, which may be a barrier for some players.
• Risk of feeling overwhelmed: With so many new mechanics and factions, new players may feel overwhelmed by the game’s complexity.

Comparing the Two Games: A Table

Conclusion

Ultimately, the decision to start with Total War Warhammer 1 or 2 comes down to personal preference. If you’re new to the series and prefer a more linear storyline and less complex gameplay, Total War Warhammer may be the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a more immersive experience with improved graphics and diplomacy mechanics, Total War Warhammer II is the way to go.

Recommendation:

If you’re unsure, we recommend starting with Total War Warhammer 2. While it has a steeper learning curve, its improved graphics and diplomacy mechanics make it a more engaging and immersive experience. However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option or prefer a simpler gameplay experience, Total War Warhammer 1 may be the better choice.